This film features excellent performances and, having read the Orton Diaries, I can safely say it does an excellent job of conveying the true story without significant distortions. Oldman even looks like Orton and conveys exactly the impression of him that you get from his writings (which, as a godsend to Bennett, go into extraordinary, novel-like, detail). Molina was not quite as convincing as Halliwell, but most of our impressions of him are from third hand sources. It's a pity that the only other character of strength in the film was the agent,Peggy, whereas they did have close friends at that time (Kenneth Williams for one) whose interaction could have given the viewer a bit more insight into Halliwell's problems. The book by Lahr succeeds in this far better. However, still a compelling drama in its own right that will leave a lasting impression on the viewer. Recommended ****!